Glass and ceramics maker, decorator or finisher

Glass and ceramics maker, decorator or finisher - overview

As a glass and ceramics maker, decorator or finisher, you’ll use your artistic ability and technical knowledge of materials to produce functional and decorative pieces. Learn more about a career in glassware and ceramics, find out what it involves and what you’ll need to study and do to get a role.

Learn what the role involves below.

What does a glass and ceramics maker, decorator or finisher do?

Many glass and ceramic makers, decorators and finishers are self-employed but there are some opportunities in larger manufacturing companies.

If you work for a company, it's likely you’ll be given a product brief and be involved in mass production. You might design, produce, decorate or finish pieces such as glass eyes, mirrors, windows, tableware, bathroom fixtures, garden ceramics or tiles.

If you work for a small business or are self-employed, you’ll probably be involved in all aspects of the design and making process. You’ll produce your own unique pieces to sell and collaborate with clients, turning their ideas into a reality. You could work from home, in a workshop, a creative studio or a factory.

What will your days involve?

Daily tasks will vary but could involve:

Liaising with clients who have bought or commissioned your work
Choosing the right materials
Using a range of glazes and decorative processes
Creating work for exhibitions and client commissions
Designing a website to promote and sell your work
Firing ceramics in a kiln
Marketing your brand on social media
Shaping clay by hand or on a wheel to create sculptures, crockery, tiles, ornaments etc.
Using tools to heat, shape and bend glass before applying decorative finishes
Gnerating new ideas
Managing the cost of materials and sold items

FAQs

How much can you earn as a glass and ceramics maker, decorator or finisher?

The average salary for a glass and ceramics maker, decorator or finisher in the UK is £22,880. Graduates start at around £24,500.

Does a glass and ceramics maker, decorator or finisher role involve travel in the UK or overseas?

As a glass and ceramics maker, decorator or finisher, you may travel for an artist residency, which could be in the UK or overseas. You may also travel to a studio or when delivering your work.